Description

A quick and easy holiday dessert featuring a graham cracker crust and a gooey, caramel-sweet filling infused with bourbon and toasted pecans. These bars are perfect for feeding a crowd and can be made ahead of time.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for crust)
2 cups brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for filling)
3 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons bourbon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups pecan halves
Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with foil, leaving an overhang on the sides, and spray with non-stick spray.
In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons sugar, and ½ cup melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and set on a wire rack, leaving the oven on.
In a large bowl, whisk 2 cups brown sugar and ½ cup melted butter until smooth. Whisk in eggs one at a time, then add heavy cream, bourbon, vanilla, and salt. Mix until combined.
Pour the filling over the hot crust. Sprinkle pecan halves evenly over the top and press gently to adhere.
Bake for 35-40 minutes until edges are bubbling and browned, but the center still jiggles slightly. Do not overbake.
Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack (about 1-2 hours) before cutting. For faster setting, refrigerate for 30 minutes after initial cooling.
Cut into 2-inch squares and serve at room temperature.

Notes

Toast pecans at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for enhanced flavor. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. If using a glass pan, add 5 minutes to baking time.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar (2-inch square
Calories: 280
Sugar: 26
Sodium: 150
Fat: 16
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 32
Fiber: 2
Protein: 4

Keywords: brown sugar, bourbon, pecan pie bars, holiday dessert, easy dessert, graham cracker crust, make-ahead dessert, christmas treats